Nominations are now open for the 2026 Chemist Warehouse AFLW Community Ambassador Program, shining a light on those who have been instrumental amongst their communities to nurture and develop women and girls' involvement in Aussie Rules.
Selected by the AFL, the initiative recognises community football representatives from all aspects of the game – including playing, coaching, umpiring and administration – who have driven high-quality experiences within their local communities and played a key role in the transformation of the game for women and girls.
Since the launch of the NAB AFLW 10 years ago, women and girls participating in community football increased by 246 per cent, with more than 2,500 new teams established during that time.
The growth of the game has also been reflected beyond those playing, with more women and girls stepping into umpiring and coaching roles, which has increased by 44 per cent and 33 per cent respectively since 2022.
Seven ambassadors will be selected in 2026, with a recipient from New South Wales/ACT, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia.
Each ambassador will receive a $1,000 grant from the Women's Football Fund to donate to their club of choice as well as a money can't buy 2026 NAB AFLW Grand Final experience.
AFL National Women and Girls Football Lead, Debbie Lee said:
"Growing women and girls' participation starts at the community level, where passionate people in local communities foster inclusive and welcoming environments that inspire a lifelong love of the game," Lee said.
"It's an initiative I have been lucky enough to be involved in over the years, and I encourage clubs across the country to start nominating for this year's ambassadors.
"We're proud to celebrate those making an impact through the Chemist Warehouse AFLW Community Ambassador Program, and on behalf of the AFL, I'd like to thank Chemist Warehouse for its ongoing support."
Chemist Warehouse Deputy CEO, Mario Tascone said:
"Chemist Warehouse is proud to support the AFLW Community Ambassador Program and recognise the people who dedicate their time to helping women and girls' football thrive in communities across Australia," Tascone said.
"As a supporter of the NAB AFLW since its inception, Chemist Warehouse remains committed to championing women and girls across all levels of the game - from grassroots to the elite.
"With applications now open for 2026, we're excited to hear the inspiring stories from across the country and look forward to celebrating this year's ambassadors at the 2026 NAB AFLW Grand Final."
2025 Chemist Warehouse AFLW Community Ambassador for NSW/ACT, Samantha Apps said:
"My experience as an ambassador was incredibly rewarding and opened up so many opportunities, including becoming an AFL Coach Developer to most recently supporting the GIANTS First Nations Academy," Apps said.
"A major highlight within the program was attending the NAB AFLW Grand Final, connecting with likeminded people and gaining valuable insights from pioneers of the game like Debbie."
Now in its sixth consecutive year, 35 ambassadors have been recognised to date as part of the Chemist Warehouse AFLW Community Ambassador Program.
Nominations open today, Monday 22 June and close on Sunday 26 July, with the 2026 ambassadors announced in early September.
To nominate someone from you local club, click here.
